Tending To Business: Salon Chez Nous

By Joseph Ritacco

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Northern Valley Suburbanite

What's in a name? For Carmen Malleo, the name of a business - in this case, his business, Salon Chez Nous in Englewood - can be an homage to his birthplace and a statement of purpose regarding customer service. The French phrase "chez nous," which translates to "by us" or "our house," typifies the warm atmosphere clients enjoy once they walk through the door.

A salon owner for more than three decades, Malleo has been a fixture in Bergen County, operating salons in Fort Lee, Tenafly and Englewood during that time. His most recent location, 9 E. Palisade Ave. in Englewood, has been open for a little over a year.

His experienced, well-trained staff, comprised of several former salon owners, specializes in haircutting, coloring, extensions, Keratin treatments and make-up application.

"We really treat the clients well here," said Malleo, "What sets us apart is really good "service. If there's a problem, we correct it."

Malleo's customer-friendly approach has resulted in loyal clients, many of whom have followed him throughout his career in Bergen County. The relationships, in some cases, date back 15 or 20 years. Longtime customers have probably noticed that prices haven't changed in awhile - since 2000, to be exact. Given the constraints of the current economic climate, he has made it a point to keep prices affordable.

"I don't believe in gouging people with prices," said Malleo. "Is any haircut worth $500? We have realistic, reasonable prices. In general, if you're good at what you do, you'll do well."

Malleo's longevity in Bergen County has also given him the opportunity to mentor the next generation of stylists, a role he has relished. Many who have worked under his supervision over the years have worked their way up the ranks of the industry, some even operating their own salons in the area.

"It's difficult when people move on," he said, "but I've enjoyed the opportunity to mentor them, build them up and watch them grow."

Tending To Business: Salon Chez Nous

What's in a name? For Carmen Malleo, the name of a business - in this case, his business, Salon Chez Nous in Englewood - can be an homage to his birthplace and a statement of purpose regarding customer service. The French phrase "chez nous," which translates to "by us" or "our house," typifies the warm atmosphere clients enjoy once they walk through the door.

A salon owner for more than three decades, Malleo has been a fixture in Bergen County, operating salons in Fort Lee, Tenafly and Englewood during that time. His most recent location, 9 E. Palisade Ave. in Englewood, has been open for a little over a year.

His experienced, well-trained staff, comprised of several former salon owners, specializes in haircutting, coloring, extensions, Keratin treatments and make-up application.

"We really treat the clients well here," said Malleo, "What sets us apart is really good "service. If there's a problem, we correct it."

Malleo's customer-friendly approach has resulted in loyal clients, many of whom have followed him throughout his career in Bergen County. The relationships, in some cases, date back 15 or 20 years. Longtime customers have probably noticed that prices haven't changed in awhile - since 2000, to be exact. Given the constraints of the current economic climate, he has made it a point to keep prices affordable.

"I don't believe in gouging people with prices," said Malleo. "Is any haircut worth $500? We have realistic, reasonable prices. In general, if you're good at what you do, you'll do well."

Malleo's longevity in Bergen County has also given him the opportunity to mentor the next generation of stylists, a role he has relished. Many who have worked under his supervision over the years have worked their way up the ranks of the industry, some even operating their own salons in the area.

"It's difficult when people move on," he said, "but I've enjoyed the opportunity to mentor them, build them up and watch them grow."